IGF Binding Protein - 2 IGFBP - 2 Test
Short Name: IGFBP-2 Test
Also known as: IGFBP-2 Test, IGF Binding Protein 2 Test, Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 2 Test, IGFBP-2 Serum Test
IGF Binding Protein - 2 IGFBP - 2 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹15,000. Uses Radioimmunoassay (RIA) on Serum samples. Results in Sample should reach the reference laboratory by the 7th of the month. Reports are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks after the sample is received. You will be notified via email, WhatsApp, or through the online portal.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The IGFBP-2 test is performed to evaluate the levels of IGF Binding Protein-2 in the blood, which aids in diagnosing growth hormone-related disorders, assessing growth abnormalities in children and adolescents, monitoring conditions associated with altered IGF axis activity, and serving as a marker for metastatic prostatic carcinoma. This test helps clinicians understand the dynamics of the IGF system and guide appropriate treatment strategies.
- Test Code
- 857
- CPT Code
- 83519
- ICD Code
- E34.3
- Price
- ₹15,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Sample should reach the reference laboratory by the 7th of the month. Reports are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks after the sample is received. You will be notified via email, WhatsApp, or through the online portal.
- Fasting Required
- Yes
- Method
- Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
Sample Collection
Overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or ongoing hormone therapies. Stay well hydrated prior to the blood draw.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect approximately 2 mL of blood from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The procedure typically takes 5-10 minutes and may cause mild discomfort at the puncture site.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball for 3-5 minutes. The sample will be shipped refrigerated or frozen to the reference laboratory. Minor bruising or soreness at the collection site is normal and resolves within a day.
Timeline: Sample should reach the reference laboratory by the 7th of the month. Reports are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks after the sample is received. You will be notified via email, WhatsApp, or through the online portal.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The IGFBP-2 test is performed to evaluate the levels of IGF Binding Protein-2 in the blood, which aids in diagnosing growth hormone-related disorders, assessing growth abnormalities in children and adolescents, monitoring conditions associated with altered IGF axis activity, and serving as a marker for metastatic prostatic carcinoma. This test helps clinicians understand the dynamics of the IGF system and guide appropriate treatment strategies.
How to Prepare
- Overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred before sample collection
- Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory
- 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from 1 SST is required
- Sample must be shipped refrigerated or frozen to the reference laboratory
- Sample should reach the lab by the 7th of the month for timely reporting
- Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours before the test
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"IGFBP-2 is a clinically important binding protein that modulates the bioavailability of IGF-1 and IGF-2. Its concentration is inversely related to growth hormone secretion, making it a valuable adjunct in diagnosing growth hormone disorders. Additionally, elevated IGFBP-2 levels have been observed in metastatic prostatic carcinoma, serving as a potential tumour marker. I recommend this test when evaluating patients with unexplained growth abnormalities or when monitoring certain malignancies. Always interpret IGFBP-2 results alongside IGF-1, IGF-2, and growth hormone levels for a comprehensive clinical picture."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Haemolysed or lipaemic serum samples
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL)
- Samples without the mandatory Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35)
- Samples not shipped under required temperature conditions
- Unlabelled or mislabelled samples
Understanding Your Results
May be seen in conditions with elevated growth hormone secretion, such as acromegaly or gigantism. May also indicate anabolic states or exogenous growth hormone use. Clinical correlation is essential.
Action: Consult your endocrinologist for further evaluation including GH suppression test and IGF-1 levels.
May indicate growth hormone deficiency, malnutrition, or liver dysfunction. Elevated levels have also been reported in metastatic prostatic carcinoma. In children, elevated levels may be associated with growth retardation and delayed bone age.
Action: Consult your endocrinologist or oncologist for comprehensive assessment and additional testing as needed.
Suggests normal regulation of the IGF axis. Clinical correlation with symptoms and other hormonal parameters is still recommended.
Action: Discuss results with your referring physician to rule out other causes of presenting symptoms.
Consult your doctor if your IGFBP-2 levels are abnormal, if your child shows signs of short stature, delayed puberty, or delayed bone age, or if you are being monitored for metastatic prostatic carcinoma. Any persistent symptoms related to growth abnormalities warrant a specialist evaluation by an endocrinologist or oncologist.
Limitations
- ⚠IGFBP-2 levels vary with age and gender; results must be interpreted in clinical context
- ⚠This test should not be used as a standalone diagnostic tool
- ⚠Results must be correlated with IGF-1, IGF-2, and growth hormone levels
- ⚠The Radioimmunoassay method has specific sensitivity thresholds
- ⚠Sample must reach the reference laboratory under proper cold chain conditions
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or swelling at the blood draw site
- ●Slight pain or discomfort during venipuncture
- ●Rarely, dizziness or lightheadedness after blood collection
- ●Extremely rare risk of infection at the puncture site
Interfering Factors
- ●Non-fasting samples may affect accuracy
- ●Haemolysed or lipaemic samples can interfere with results
- ●Recent growth hormone therapy or IGF-1 therapy may alter levels
- ●Severe liver disease may affect IGFBP-2 production
- ●Use of exogenous insulin or anabolic steroids may influence results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | IGF Binding Protein - 2 IGFBP - 2 Test | IGF-1 Test | IGF-2 Test | Growth Hormone (GH) Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | IGF Binding Protein - 2 IGFBP - 2 Test | IGF-1 measures the circulating level of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, which is directly regulated by growth hormone. IGFBP-2 modulates IGF-1 bioavailability. Both tests are often ordered together for growth disorder evaluation. | IGF-2 measures Insulin-like Growth Factor-2, primarily involved in fetal growth. IGFBP-2 binds to IGF-2 as well. The two tests complement each other in evaluating IGF axis abnormalities. | GH is the primary regulator of IGF-1 production. IGFBP-2 levels are inversely related to GH secretion. Combining GH and IGFBP-2 provides a more complete picture of growth hormone axis function. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IGFBP-2 test?
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